Klaus Hommels
Founder and Chairman, Lakestar; Chairman, NATO Innovation Fund
Klaus Hommels is a prominent figure in Europe's business and tech scene. He is known for his investments in major tech companies like Skype, Facebook, and Airbnb, among others. In 2012, he established Lakestar following a successful stint managing his own venture capital fund, Hommels Holding. Klaus actively advocates for strengthening Europe's tech ecosystem and digital autonomy, engaging with policymakers, regulators, and corporate leaders. He chairs the NATO Innovation Fund and contributes to initiatives such as the Internet Economy Foundation and the European Center for Digital Competitiveness. Additionally, Klaus serves on Henkel’s Digital Advisory Board and the Munich Security Conference's Innovation Board, shaping digital innovation strategies. His involvement in the UK Capital Markets Industry Taskforce reflects his commitment to fostering financial dialogue across borders. Formerly Chair at Invest Europe, Klaus steered the organization to greater prominence from July 2022 to June 2023. He also collaborates with Ashoka, supporting initiatives for societal betterment. His professional journey traces back to Bertelsmann and AOL Germany, where he played instrumental roles in shaping corporate strategies. Armed with a PhD in finance from the University of Fribourg, Switzerland, Klaus continues to shape the future of European entrepreneurship and innovation with unwavering dedication and vision.
